PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Jorge Polanco is taking every opportunity this spring to adapt to playing first base with the Mets, knowing that real-game experience is crucial for mastering the position. The Mets’ former infielder Daniel Murphy, who spent much of his 12-year career shifting among third, first, and second base, emphasized the importance of in-game reps beyond practice drills.
Daniel Murphy’s Perspective on Adjusting to First Base
Speaking at Mets camp, Murphy highlighted how each new experience in a simulated or live game adds valuable knowledge. He told NJ.com,
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Each time that he has a new rep, even more so in a sim game or an in-game situation, that’ll belong to him now,
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and continued,
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He’ll be able to throw it in his library of experiences like, ‘OK, I’ve been in this situation before’ when reading the bat and how the ball is coming off.
”
Calling in from the Mets’ 6-6 tie with the Astros, Murphy offered Polanco concrete advice focused on timing, a crucial skill highlighted by the Mets’ coaching staff for recent position switches, such as Bo Bichette’s move from shortstop to third base. Murphy underscored, “
Ball security comes first,
” and added,
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You’ll probably have more time over there than you think.
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Mastering Footwork and Positioning at First Base
Murphy explained that after securing the ball, the key lies in precise footwork and positioning, especially when managing force plays or executing complex double plays like the 3-6-3. He acknowledged the challenges posed by plays involving the pitcher covering first base, particularly with bunts played in the infield grass. However, Murphy expressed confidence in Polanco, saying,
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I think with the way he moves and his experience and his history in the middle of the diamond,
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he added,
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he’s going to be able to move more than adequately over there. He’s going to be good. When he gets those in-game and sim-game reps, it’ll all slow down for him because he’ll be able to see things you can’t get in drills on the back fields.
”
Murphy Praises Mets’ New Third Baseman Bo Bichette
Reflecting on the Mets’ offseason additions, Murphy shared admiration for the signing of Bo Bichette, a highly skilled hitter who strengthens a lineup featuring Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor. As the son of former MLB player Dante Bichette, Bo’s baseball upbringing impressed Murphy. He said,
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As you’re replacing these lifelong Mets that we all enjoyed watching for so long,
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and added,
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you’re going to appreciate how well Bo plays the game, just because he’s been around for so long. He’s gonna know how to move a runner over, how to drive somebody in from third with less than two outs. Runner on first base with two outs, you’ll see him go, ‘I gotta hit a double right here.’ And the swing will reflect it.
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Reflecting on Departures and Team Roster Changes
Murphy, himself a homegrown Met who later signed with the Nationals, addressed the departure of slugger Pete Alonso to the Orioles. He conveyed understanding of how free agency decisions unfold, stating,
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It wasn’t that both parties didn’t want each other,
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and elaborated,
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They went through something similar last offseason. Pete got a term in Baltimore that was completely deserving, but was something different than what David Stearns and Steve Cohen had an idea for how they wanted to construct their roster. I don’t think either party will blame each other at all. That’s the game. Ain’t nothing malicious about it.
”
Murphy’s Outlook on the Mets’ Contention in the NL East
Despite extensive roster turnover, Murphy views the Mets as strong contenders in the National League East, contingent on maintaining player health throughout the season. He compared this year’s team to the Mets squad that reached the World Series in 2015 when he was still active, noting the organization has already made significant off-season moves.
Murphy said,
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They were able to make some of those additions in the offseason,
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continuing,
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whereas some of ours, we waited more towards the deadline. We weren’t probably quite as in go-for-it mode as they are here, but fortunately, our club played well enough to make them make a decision at the deadline. You get guys like [Yoenis Céspedes, Kelly Johnson, Juan Uribe]. Some of those additions have already been made to this ball club. Then they’ll just look to fortify.
”
Significance of In-Game Experience for Polanco’s Development
As Jorge Polanco adapts to first base, Murphy’s insights stress the importance of applying skills in real-game situations rather than only relying on practice reps. Polanco’s prior experience in the middle infield and his athleticism position him well to succeed at first base. The Mets’ ongoing roster adjustments, guided by leadership figures like David Stearns, Steve Cohen, Carlos Mendoza, and bench coach Kai Correa, reflect a team eager to compete fiercely in the coming season.
